Classification of the Obudu Plateau (crest) and Sub Plateau Soils of Cross River State, Nigeria.

The soils at the plateau (crest) and sub plateau of three ranges of Obudu mountains were studied using profiles. Two profiles each were dug at the Ranch, Belinge and Belegate. These six profiles were studied morphologically and physicochemically; and the result used for (USDA and FAO) classification. The plateau and sub plateau soils of the Ranch and Belinge possessed mollic A epipedons and argillic B properties with base saturation greater than 50 % by NH4OAc to be classified as mollisols, at typic haplustolls. The mountain crest and sub plateau soils at Belegate had umbric and mollic properties respectively; argillic B properties and moderate to high base saturation to be considered as Alfisols. Further classification at the subgroup level was named Typic haplustalf for the plateau and mollic haplustalf for the sub plateau. Using the FAO classification, the soils at the Ranch and Belinge were classified as luvic phaeozems for having mollic A horizons and lacking hydromorphic properities within 100 cm of the surface. The soils at the crest of Belegete was classified as umbric Acrisol for having umbric A horizon and base saturation less than 50% by NH4OAc part of the B- horizon. By the knowledge of the classification, these soils are a huge potential for (agro) pastoral industry since they can support a wide variety of pasture for high stocking density.